The R.E.C. Room activities at the University of Lethbridge will be available starting February 1, 2023. (Photo: University of Lethbridge)

By Justin Goulet

University of Lethbridge launches R.E.C. Room project

Jan 26, 2023 | 11:30 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The University of Lethbridge has introduced a new initiative aimed at boosting mental health and morale on campus.

The post-secondary has introduced the R.E.C. Room project. It’s a joint initiative funded by ULethbridge and created in consultation with the University of Lethbridge Students’ Union (ULSU) Student Affairs, and in collaboration with Agility, Horns Recreation and the University Library.

R.E.C. is an acronym for refresh, energize and connect. The project incorporates a variety of locations around the U of L campus. Locations include the UHall Atrium, Science Commons (outside the Innovation Zone), Markin Hall Atrium, Galileo’s in the Students’ Union, the University Library, and the Chill Zone in Agility’s Innovation Zone.

Activities in each R.E.C. Room include puzzles, chess boards, virtual reality games, ping pong and more. The U of L said they will offer a space for students, staff and school faculty to unwind, relax and take a break from the business of school life.

Dr. Mark Slomp, executive director of Student Services stated in a news release, “It’s imperative we proactively address students’ mental health needs and promote wellness at every opportunity.”

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Slomp continued, “With mental health issues so prevalent amongst students, and the benefits of proactively addressing those issues so pronounced, it is in every school’s best interest to promote mental wellness on campus.”

He added, “Our investment in the mental health of our students carries the obvious short-term benefit of enhancing their student experience, and also supports student retention and in the end, leads to successful students who go on to positively impact their communities and society as a whole.”

Gage Desteur, the vice-president academic for the Students’ Union said students need more support and this initiative offers a different way to support students holistically rather than just purely academically. Desteur said, “I’m looking forward to the positive impact these spaces will have on our campus and on students’ overall well-being, especially as we continue to rebuild our campus community, now that we are fully back in person.”

The R.E.C. Room areas will be open for activities starting February 1, 2023.

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